Farm to Film Fest Returns April 18–19 with Free International Film Festival Weekend in Downtown Washington

Film lovers, storytellers, and curious community members are invited to Downtown Washington, Iowa for a weekend celebrating the power of cinema during the 4th Annual Farm to Film Fest, happening April 18–19, 2026. Best of all, every screening and festival event is free and open to the public.

This international film festival brings together filmmakers and audiences from around the world for two days of films, discussions, and community connection.

Now an Iowa Certified Film Festival

Farm to Film Fest recently received the official designation of Iowa Certified Film Festival, a recognition awarded through the Certified Film Festival (CFF) program administered by Produce Iowa on behalf of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA).

This certification places the festival among a select group of recognized festivals across the state and provides access to valuable resources and industry support. The designation recognizes the festival’s dedication to high-quality programming and its growing impact on Iowa’s creative economy.

Organizers say the goal remains simple: showcase exceptional films, connect audiences with filmmakers, and enrich the community through the arts.

More Than Fields — It’s Film

While the festival’s name celebrates Iowa’s agricultural heritage, Farm to Film Fest is not limited to farming themes.

The festival highlights diverse, high-quality cinema from filmmakers worldwide, including genres such as:

• Adventure

• Comedy

• Animation

• Environmental films

• Social justice documentaries

• Travel stories

• Arts and culture features

Festival organizers emphasize that Farm to Film Fest is a film festival first and foremost, dedicated to storytelling that sparks curiosity, conversation, and creativity.

Festival Schedule Highlights

The weekend includes screenings, filmmaker interactions, and special programming across several downtown venues.

Friday, April 17 (Kick-off Event)

• Kick-off concert at JP’s 207

• Screening of Boi da Fé em Deus at 6:30 p.m.

• Live music by Forro Fo Sho at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 18

• Registration opens at 9:00 a.m.

• Welcome at 9:30 a.m. at the State Theatre

• Film screenings from 9:35 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

• Free showing of the film Hugo at the State Theatre

• Filmmaker & Dessert Reception at 7:00 p.m. (Library)

Sunday, April 19

• Registration opens at 9:30 a.m.

• Special programs from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

• Film screenings from 12:45 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

• Oral film history presentation and special programming

Festival Venues

Events will take place throughout Downtown Washington at several community locations:

• CityPoint Hub (121 W Main St.)

• Washington Public Library – 2nd Floor (115 W Washington St.)

• State Theatre (123 E Washington St. – Saturday only)

• City Council Chambers (215 E Washington St.)

• Art Domestique (118 S Iowa Ave – Festival Headquarters & Registration)

Visitors are encouraged to shop, dine, and explore downtown Washington during breaks between screenings.

A Festival with a Mission

The Farm to Film Fest aims to engage and entertain audiences through film while inspiring meaningful conversation and celebrating the arts. By connecting filmmakers and audiences in a welcoming community setting, the festival continues to grow as one of Iowa’s unique cultural events.

Organizers extend heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, venues, and supporters who make the festival possible each year.

Whether you're a dedicated film buff or simply looking for something new to experience, Farm to Film Fest offers a full weekend of international storytelling right in the heart of Southeast Iowa.

📅 April 18–19, 2026
📍 Downtown Washington, Iowa
🎬 All events are free and open to the public